San Miguel de Allende: Explore the Charm and Magic of Mexico’s Enchanting Town

How to get there

San Miguel de Allende is conveniently located about a three-hour drive from Mexico City, making it an ideal destination to combine with a Mexico City trip. You can easily rent a car or arrange for a private transfer. If you prefer flying, the closest airport is Querétaro International Airport (QRO), about an hour away from San Miguel de Allende by car. From there, you can book a private shuttle or taxi service to reach the city.

Where to stay

SMA's historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the town is known for its charming cobblestone streets and colonial architecture. The city is compact and walkable, making it easy to explore from almost any accommodation in the town center. Here are some of the top luxury hotels to consider:

• Belmond Casa de Sierra Nevada: A boutique luxury hotel featuring colonial-style suites and a stunning courtyard, perfect for a romantic getaway.

• Rosewood San Miguel de Allende: Known for its spacious rooms, rooftop bar and expansive pool area, Rosewood offers breathtaking views of the town.

• Live Aqua Urban Resort: A sleek and modern hotel that blends luxury with a focus on relaxation and wellness. During our stay, we found the rooms to be spacious, stylish and incredibly comfortable. The beautiful grounds, exceptional service and prime location make it easy to explore many nearby attractions.

What to do

• San Miguel de Allende is a city best explored on foot, where every turn brings new discoveries, from colorful streets to hidden courtyards and artisanal shops. Here are some must-see highlights:

• Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel: The iconic pink Gothic church is the centerpiece of the town. Be sure to visit both during the day and at night, when it’s beautifully illuminated.

• Aldama Street: One of the most picturesque streets in the city, lined with charming shops, colorful houses, and perfect photo opportunities.

• El Mirador: Hike or drive up to this scenic viewpoint for a stunning panoramic view of the town, especially at sunset. There’s also a small artisanal market at the top where you can buy handmade crafts.

• La Fábrica La Aurora: A unique art and design center housed in a former textile factory. La Fábrica is home to numerous art galleries, studios and boutiques featuring local artists’ work.

• Mercado de Artesanías: Located in the heart of SMA, this sprawling market offers a wide variety of handcrafted items, from textiles to ceramics, making it the perfect spot to pick up souvenirs.

Wine lovers' paradise

San Miguel de Allende has emerged as one of Mexico’s premier wine regions, even competing with Baja California. The surrounding area boasts several exceptional wineries, with Tres Raíces being a notable highlight. This winery offers engaging vineyard tours, tastings and a superb on-site restaurant. During our visit, we sampled some outstanding wines and enjoyed a highly informative tour. As passionate winery enthusiasts, we found the experience at Tres Raíces to be world-class, leaving us eager to explore more wineries in the region.

Other noteworthy wineries to visit include:

• Cuna de Tierra: Known for its stunning architecture and exceptional wines.

• Dos Búhos: An organic winery offering tastings in a rustic, picturesque setting.

Where to eat

San Miguel de Allende boasts a vibrant food scene, blending traditional Mexican flavors with international influences. Be sure to dine at some of these top spots:

• Fátima 7: Located in the heart of the city, this restaurant offers Mediterranean-inspired cuisine in a beautiful rooftop setting.
  

• La Dona de San Miguel: A casual spot known for its authentic Mexican dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.
  

• Lavanda Cafe: A charming café offering a delightful menu of gourmet breakfasts, fresh pastries and artisanal coffee in a cozy, inviting setting.
  

• El Pegaso: A historic restaurant serving traditional Mexican cuisine with a focus on local ingredients, set in a beautifully restored colonial building.

Where to drink

For a lively evening or a laid-back sunset drink, SMA has a variety of stylish bars and rooftop venues to enjoy:

• Luna Rooftop Tapas Bar: Located at the Rosewood Hotel, this rooftop bar offers panoramic views of the town and delicious cocktails.
  

• Bekeb: A chic mezcal bar offering a curated selection of artisanal mezcal and cocktails.
  

• Tunki by Handshake: A trendy cocktail bar known for its innovative drinks and sleek, modern design.
  

Whether you're wandering through the historic streets or enjoying the local food and wine scene, San Miguel de Allende promises an unforgettable experience!